When drainage emergencies strike, every second counts. Whether it’s a burst pipe or an overflowing toilet, knowing the location of your stopcock and how to use it could save your home from costly damage. Yet many homeowners have no idea where to find it. (Sounds like you?) So let’s fix that!
What Is a Stopcock?
A stopcock (or stop valve / stop tap) in its simplest terms is a tap that controls your home’s main water supply into your property. Turning it off stops water from flowing into your plumbing and drainage systems allowing you to address water emergencies like leaks, burst pipes or overflowing sinks without flooding.
Why It’s Important to Locate Your Stopcock:
• Quick Response in Emergencies: The faster you can shut off the water, the less damage to your property.
• Planned Plumbing Work: If you’re replacing taps, fixing leaks, or servicing appliances, you’ll need to turn off the water supply.
• Seasonal Maintenance: Protect pipes during winter by draining your system after shutting off the stopcock.
Common Stopcock Locations:
Stopcocks are usually found in:
• Kitchens: Under the sink.
• Utility Rooms: Near the washing machine or boiler.
• Cupboards or Under Stairs: Hidden away in storage areas.
• Outside: For homes with external stop valves, look near the boundary of your property.
How to Check Your Stopcock Works:
1. Locate the stopcock and turn it clockwise to close it.
2. Run a tap to ensure the water stops.
3. Turn it anti-clockwise to open the supply again.
What If You Can’t Find It?
If your stopcock isn’t where you expect it to be, don’t panic. Your water supplier can help you locate the external main valve for your property.
Why It’s Worth Knowing Now:
It’s easy to ignore this little detail until you’re ankle-deep in water or worse sewage. Take five minutes today to locate your stopcock and ensure it’s working correctly. Your future self will thank you.
Top Tip:
If you’re moving into a new home make it one of the first questions you ask the previous owners. It’s even worth considering a homebuyer drainage survey before you purchase, giving you complete peace of mind and no nasty surprises. Happy Drains can certainly help with that!
The Mop Up:
Being prepared is key to avoiding drainage emergencies. Take the time to find and test your stopcock, it’s the ultimate homeowner life hack! If you’re unsure or need help and advice, Happy Drains is here for you.
07788 254933 / 0800 849 8099
Happy Hunting.
